GCCEC Helping Our Planet

13 February 2018

The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) is living up to its reputation as a world-leading sustainable venue by offsetting 16 tons of CO2 emissions through the use of environmentally-friendly BioPak cups and cutlery in 2017.

GCCEC General Manager Adrienne Readings said the 16 tons was the equivalent to almost 6,800 litres of fuel saved, over 64,000km travelled in a vehicle and the removal of four cars from our roads.

The Centre has partnered with BioPak over several years to reduce its carbon footprint by stocking single-use cups made from materials sourced from managed plantations and coated not in oil but a bioplastic made from plants.

“We are extremely proud of our contribution to help the environment through our partnership with BioPak,” Ms Readings said.

“Sustainability is one of our core values and we are committed to leading the conventions and meetings industry towards a more sustainable future.

“Sometimes it’s the most simple and inexpensive initiatives that can make a huge difference.

BioPak’s Richard Fine said GCCEC’s contribution had also resulted in funding to plant 49 seedlings in the Daintree Rainforest through Rainforest Rescue.

“Together with our customers, we have an obligation to preserve and protect the environment and to give back to and support the communities in which we operate,” he said.

GCCEC’s responsible sustainability practices are not restricted to single-use packaging, with the business employing initiatives that result in the use of recycled or reused water; light sensors in bathrooms and storerooms; recycled paper; the recycling of printer cartridges and menus that contain 85% locally grown and sourced ingredients to name just a few initiatives.

“We will continue to promote and advocate for best practice not only in our ongoing business operations but by providing sustainable solutions to our clients,” Ms Readings said.